That's what I was taught to say as a kid if some creep offered me drugs. It was a slogan heard on TV, printed on posters and repeated at assemblies with motivational speakers. "If someone offers you drugs, kids, just say NO!" It was as simple as that.

Now, as an adult, I've come to realize it's a slogan worth repeating: "Just Say No." But the problem isn't drugs. It's demands on my time.

"Hey! We're looking for more volunteers for the youth program on Thursday nights."

"You'd be the perfect person to head up this project. I'll sign you up!"

"We need someone with writing and editing experience. Can you help us out?"

Sometimes, I really should just say no. But I don't. I feel guilty if do. Or I feel uncomfortable telling someone that I can't do something. Part of it is that I actually enjoy doing extra work for people in my community. Several groups and organizations need extra help. It's good experience, communities benefit and it makes me feel good. But sometimes it can be too much. Then I just get stressed out and cranky and no one likes a grump.

So, I've decided it's time to dust off that ol' piece of childhood advice and start applying it to my grown-up life. It's time to let my selfish side flourish. It's time to cherish MY time. It's time to start using that small, but powerful word. At least once in a while.